She poured the water, arranged some bread near enough the embers to scorch but not catch fire, and looked up at Little John. She was so accustomed to his step, to his bulk, that it took a moment to notice his face; and when she did . . . It was, she thought, rather like the moment it took to realize one had cut one's finger as one stared dumbly at the first drop of blood on the knife-blade. You know it is going to hurt quite a lot in a minute.
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In this scene from "The Outlaws of Sherwood" by Robin McKinley, the protagonist engages in a simple yet intimate activity of preparing food while reflecting on the presence of Little John. Her familiarity with him makes her initially unaware of his emotional state. However, upon noticing his face, she experiences a sudden realization that is unsettling, akin to the delay one feels when they recognize they've injured themselves.
This moment captures a mix of routine and shocking awareness, illustrating how everyday life can intersect with deeper emotions. The protagonist's reaction underscores a looming sense of hurt, suggesting that something significant is about to unfold, much like the anticipation of pain after discovering a wound. McKinley deftly uses this metaphor to convey the tension in their relationship and foreshadow potential conflict.
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